BBC Academy hires partnerships head

The BBC has today appointed former Channel 5 executive Donna Taberer to head up public service partnerships at the BBC Academy.

Launched in December 2009, the Academy acts as the BBC's centre for training, bringing together the journalism, production, leadership and technology colleges.

Taberer, who left her role as Channel 5's head of entertainment and features last week, will now be responsible for the Academy's external strategy, including all engagement with industry training bodies and major stakeholders.

Her role will involve exploring how the BBC can "share as much training as possible with the wider broadcasting industry as part of its public service mission".

She will seek to build "mutually beneficial" partnerships with other broadcasters and training providers, as well as make the Academy's learning resources more widely available.

Taberer started her broadcasting career at the BBC in 1990 as a researcher on the That's Life programme, before going on to work on shows such as Watchdog and The National Lottery.

In 2006, she left to become Sky1's commissioning editor for entertainment, before joining Channel 5 in August 2009, where she worked with talent such as Justin Lee Collins and Emma Bunton.

"Training has always been a passion and it's great to be returning to the BBC in such a critical role," said Taberer.

"This is a unique opportunity to combine my BBC and commercial experience. I'm looking forward to working at the BBC Academy and with partners across the industry."

BBC Academy director Anne Morrison added: "I am delighted that we have been able to appoint someone of Donna's calibre and track record, and to bring her back to the BBC.

"The BBC Academy is increasingly working in partnership with outside training bodies and Donna's role will be vital in helping to identify skills gaps in the industry and ensuring that the mobile workforce on which the BBC depends is equipped with the required skills."